Launch of PHU's Fall Vaccine Clinics

Timmins, Ontario — The Porcupine Health Unit's fall vaccination campaign is now underway. Residents can book their flu and COVID-19 vaccine appointments on the PHU website or by calling their local health unit office. Vaccines are also available through healthcare providers and participating pharmacies across the region.

The health unit encourages everyone over 6 months of age to get vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu. The clinics will offer both COVID-19 and flu vaccines and the opportunity to book both vaccinations for the same visit.

According to Kendra Luxmore, Program Manager of Immunization and Chronic Disease Prevention, and Oral Health, “Getting vaccinated against both the flu and COVID-19 is safe and lowers your risk of severe health complications.”

The first few weeks of the clinics will focus on high-risk individuals and their caregivers. As Luxmore explains, “Certain individuals are more vulnerable to serious complications from COVID-19 and influenza. That’s why it’s crucial for them and the people around them to get vaccinated as soon as possible.” These groups include:

• people with underlying medical conditions,
• those 65 years and older,
• pregnant women,
• children 6 months to 5 years old,
• household and work-related contacts of people at risk of severe influenza-related outcomes, and
• people who provide essential community services.

The health unit will be offering clinics at various times and days across the region, including evenings and weekends, to ensure that all residents can attend a clinic. Book appointments online at phu.fyi/appointments or by calling a local PHU office or 1-800-461-1818.

Luxmore adds, “Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu and COVID-19, especially as we approach the fall and holiday season. We encourage everyone to visit their healthcare provider, local pharmacist, or one of our health unit clinics to get their vaccines.”